VERO BEACH | Catholic Charities’ Samaritan Center will host its 34th annual Soup Bowl fundraiser on Thursday, Nov. 5, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Vero Beach Heritage Center.
The community tradition offers handmade pottery and soup in exchange for donations. Area businesses, places of worship and community organizations also will serve soup and offer bowls at their own locations across Indian River County.
The Soup Bowl supports a simple mission: every family deserves more than shelter. They deserve dignity, stability and hope for the future. The Samaritan Center provides 24/7 shelter and care for homeless families, keeping families together while offering case management, counseling, trauma support, life skills and educational programs that lead to independence. Since its founding, the center has helped 750 families, including more than 1,250 children, build brighter futures.
“With the simple act of buying a bowl of soup or pottery, anyone can join us in helping families go from homelessness to living independently,” said Renee Bireley, Samaritan Center development manager. “You’ll help some of the neediest in our community, and in return, receive artfully crafted bowls that serve as gifts, keepsakes and powerful reminders of your kindness.”
Once again, Indian River Clay potters are making and donating more than 1,000 one-of-a-kind bowls.
“We are honored to host Treasure Coast potters and volunteers in creating the bowls, making this a true community partnership,” said Kim Mayo, an Indian River Clay representative.
On Nov. 5, soup and pottery will be available at the Heritage Center and more than 20 participating locations throughout Indian River County. Soup is available for a donation of $5 per bowl or $15 per quart. Handmade pottery bowls are available for an additional $20 donation.
“We’re honored to host this event and come together to raise awareness and help homeless families in our community,” said Leslie McKenzie, executive director of the Vero Beach Heritage Center. “The Heritage Center was founded in 1991 to preserve and strengthen our community, and the Soup Bowl is a perfect reflection of that mission.”
For Soup Bowl details, visit the Samaritan Center Soup Bowl on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SamaritanCenterSoupBowl/. To learn about the work of Catholic Charities, visit www.ccdpb.org.
